NFL Draft 2010: New York Jets Draft Grades

Wilson was one of the top cornerback prospects in the 2010 draft. Cleveland said it was a “coin-toss” between Joe Haden and Kyle Wilson at pick No. 7. Wilson was incredible value late in the first round, and will be able to contribute immediately as a nickle back in the Jets’ defense. Grade: A

Round 2 (61): OG/RT Vladimir Ducasse

Vladimir was a top guard prospect on many scouts' boards, and was a projected 2nd or 3rd round pick. He has great size, but is pretty raw and would benefit from a year or two developing before becoming a full-time starter. According to Rex Ryan, Ducasse and Matt Slausen will compete for the starting left guard position vacated by eight-time Pro Bowler Alan Faneca, but I have a feeling that Ducasse will win the job. Grade: B

Round 4 (112): RB Joe McKnight

McKnight, the former teammate of Mark Sanchez, is a change of pace back that should contribute right away in the return game and on third downs. He is not a physical back and is known to shy away from contact, but he makes up for it with his speed and athleticism. The Jets obviously had no future with Leon Washington, and needed to replace his production on special teams and in the backfield. McKnight should fit well in the Jets run heavy offense. Grade: B-

Round 5 (139): RB/FB John Conner

Tony Richardson is pushing 40 and is on the last years of his career. The Jets have tried to develop fullbacks Jehuu Caulcrick and James Davis over the past few seasons, but they must not view them as long-term solutions. The fullback is a dying position in the pass heavy offenses we have been seeing, but it’s vital to the success of the Jets running attack. Tony Richardson is still the guy until he decides to retire, but Conner can contribute on special teams until he takes over as the full time stater at fullback. Rex Ryan stated that Conner was one of his favorite players in this year’s draft class. Grade: C+

Overall

The Jets addressed their need at nickle back and also got younger on the offensive line. They also added a third-down back and special teamer to replace Leon Washington’s role. I would have liked the Jets to address defensive line depth, but you can only do some much in one draft. You also have to take into consideration that Braylon Edwards, Santonio Holmes, and ex-Jet Lito Sheppard were acquired with the Jets 2010 draft picks. However, I will not be including those trades in my final draft grade. Overall Grade: B